Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for signs of damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early you will save money on future repairs.

The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to make several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window repair sashes add an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for years. However, they can become damaged or deteriorate over time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It's located on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if worn or loose. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width to find replacement weather stripping to match.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If the sash is double glazed window repairs near me (https://slattery-Ball.federatedjournals.com/)-hung, you'll have to take off the weights and the ropes that go with them, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to cut away the weather stripping from the corners, and then remove it by hand or with a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch upvc window repair trim from the lumberyard, however you could also use scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and let it dry at least one day. Once the putty has fully cure, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if that resolves the issue. If the issue persists it's most likely to be due to the sash's balance. It is necessary to take off the window sash in order to reach this hardware.

Window sashes should open and close without much effort. However, this could be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a number of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the particular window sash.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue ensure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack in energy efficiency, windows that are old particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In many instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

To make these sash repairs, it's important to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will help you get the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and decrease the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders enclosed inside a hidden compartment and linked to the moveable the sash with rope. They function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently, you may need to locate replacements.

It's difficult to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose using mallets.

After the sash is removed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling a small hole in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel made of wood that can be ripped off to let you see the inner workings of the frame.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, as the old weights may be different sizes than what is needed. Once the new weight has been installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows the chain or cord is attached to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb level. Over time, these cords may become damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash and ensure it stays in place when it is opened.

The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically fixed or screwed in and will need to be removed or repositioned. You could employ a hammer and chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed in, but they can be removed, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able to move freely, however it may require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it in Step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It's best to leave the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. It's not too expensive to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash opened. Based on the size of your window, one or two sashweights might be required to keep it in an open position.